Kv Bolmörten; a building lost in changing context; how to retain reuse and reinvent a neglected structure

Abstract

Buildings are often seen as static entities created to perfection on the drawing board, yet in reality, most cities are filled with ‘ordinary’ buildings constructed to meet the simple needs of their inhabitants - needs that, at different rates always will require reinvention. Monuments in all their glory, are part of a cities identity, but most cities identity has been shaped and curated by the evolving relationship between a typical ‘ordinary’ building and its inhabitant. Resulting in cities constant continual change. With that in mind will this thesis consider how we, as architects, can care for these already existing structures. This thesis will use a neglected structure located in the southern part of central Gothenburg as an example of the buildings we live and interact with, without paying much attention to its qualities. Today, Gothenburg is developing large parts of its central areas, making the question of how we navigate change in the built environment highly relevant. The block Kv. Bolmörten is currently situated in a context that is rapidly transforming from industrial to residential use in just a few years - making the block lost in changing context. The thesis will results in a proposal exploring how to retain, reuse and reinvent the neglected block to sustain a purpose and endure in its new context - at least until it needs to adapt again. By proposing a new program and making Kv. Bolmörten go from passive to active for its surrounding results in a number of interventions. Implementing adaptive interventions focusing on necessary and pragmatic aspects does the thesis seek for effective and aesthetic outcomes. Supported by drawings, visualizations and models is the proposal exploring different scales of interventions with help of materiality and textures, merging old and new. The result manifests that the imperative approach to rehabilitate rather than demolish, is not only more sustainable, it can lead to an altogether richer urban environment. The thesis serves as an example how to balance preservation with the inevitable need for continual change and modernization.